Bachelor in Academic Foundations (Indigenous Studies)

Reciprocal learning lies at the heart of the Certificate in Academic Foundations – Indigenous Studies, a program designed to centre Indigenous worldviews, community connection, and intergenerational knowledge. This one-year certificate offers a unique academic environment that is equally welcoming to Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, fostering a space where traditional knowledge and contemporary critical inquiry intersect.

Students engage with the histories of Indigenous peoples and territories while building the fundamental academic skills necessary for further degree studies. By emphasizing community-based perspectives, the program prepares learners to navigate complex contemporary contexts, from global histories to the transformation of legislation and policy. This certificate serves as an ideal launchpad for higher education, with curriculum designed for maximum transferability to degree programs at Douglas College and other major research institutions.

Developing Critical Competencies

Beyond subject-specific knowledge, the program focuses on cultivating active learning and critical-thinking skills. Participants learn to apply these competencies across various disciplines, ensuring they are well-prepared for diverse career paths. Whether examining Indigenous cultures in British Columbia or exploring the intersections of literature and policy, students benefit from a supportive learning community that honours diverse ways of knowing.